Ronaldinho trying to adapt to new role

By Staff
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Google Oneindia News

DORTMUND, June 21 (Reuters) Barcelona striker Ronaldinho said he was featuring in a new, deeper role for Brazil in this World Cup.

The twice World Player of the Year has so far failed to live up to his billing in Germany, giving more ammunition to critics who say he produces his best for his club.

''The professor (coach Carlos Alberto Parreira) asked me to play more as an attacking midfielder,'' he told reporters after training today.

''I have to start the moves. I haven't lost any freedom but I play deeper, I have to supply the forwards.'' Ronaldinho completed four full internationals without scoring when he played in Sunday's 2-0 win over Australia, his last goal coming in the 4-1 victory over Argentina in the 2005 Confederations Cup final.

''My role here is a little different,'' he said. ''When you play further forward, every dribble produces a chance for a shot on goal.

''Here my job is to make the team play. I'm not here to play for myself. In the national team, all the players are of a really high standard so everybody has to help each other out, nobody is here to create a conflict.

''The atmosphere is really good and everybody is prepared to give a little. This makes Brazil a strong and winning squad.'' Parreira said Ronaldinho had been closely marked in Germany.

''Ronaldinho knew he would be under permanent vigilance with two or three players on him all the time,'' said the coach.

''He came here amid all this expectation. He's been the best in the world for two years running and television stations all over the world are always showing him in action.

''Teams know if you give him freedom, he will make the difference.'' REUTERS VJ BST0124

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